The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, Josep Borrell, had a phone call with the Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yoshimasa Hayashi, on 16 April 2023 in the context of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting to take place in Karuizawa, Japan.

HRVP Borrell conveyed his sympathies to Japanese Prime Minister Kishida further to the attempted smoke bomb attack in Wakayama on 15 April. He regretted not to be able to travel to Japan for the G7 foreign ministers’ meeting in view of his Covid-19 infection.

HRVP Borrell and Foreign Minister Hayashi discussed the priorities of Japan’s G7 Presidency and reviewed foreign policy issues of mutual interest. They welcomed the EU and Japan's joined-up approach in multilateral fora and close engagement in the G7 context.

The HRVP highlighted the importance of the G7 discussion on China and DPRK in the current geopolitical and regional context and stressed the need for continued cooperation with like-minded partners in the Indo-Pacific.

Recognising the growing geopolitical instability and pressure on the security environment, the EU and Japan stated the need for continued strong cooperation in multilateral fora. They expressed willingness to increase bilateral cooperation in pursuit of peace and security.